By Gary Cooper

A SCHEME for vulnerable older people in Angus is facing up to financial challenges as it prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

Major Jim McCluskey, manager of the Salvation Army’s Community Care Service (Angus), said the past year has seen changes in how it provides its county-wide services, owing to cash constraints.

But despite the pressures, staff managed to carry out nearly 16,500 home visits, driving more than 40,000 miles in the line of duty.

It was established in 1997 to provide a vital service to older people by collecting groceries and pensions, paying bills and taking prescriptions to chemists, as well as helping to fill forms.

But Major McCluskey warned, in his annual report, “Budget restraints have put pressure on us to make savings in various areas.

“I am extremely glad to say that these savings have been achieved without, I believe, affecting the quality and efficiency of the service which we provide.

“Unfortunately, this has meant the introduction of waiting lists for the provision of service, but we are striving to cut waiting times to the bare minimum and, with the co-operation of service and social work staff, I believe that this is being achieved.

“I would offer a sincere word of thanks to all who have helped us through this difficult time.”

The scheme last year received nearly £184,000 in grant aid from Angus Council, with nearly £87,000 from the Salvation Army and £3000 of income from other sources.

Over the year it helped 60 users in Carnoustie/Monifieth, 80 in Arbroath, 82 in Forfar/Kirriemuir and 87 in Montrose/Brechin.

By far the largest group being cared for are those aged 80-plus, where there are 144 service users.

The scheme also carried out pastoral visits to users while in hospital or nursing homes, with contact made with families in all cases of bereavement.

Since it started, there have been 1440 referrals by Angus Council’s social work department.

The care service also manages IMOK, supporting people trying to turn their lives around from drug addiction.

It features a 12-week life skills course broken into subjects including literacy, cooking, craft, IT and health advice.

An additional programme now being offered is Drugproofing Your Kids, which aims to help parents steer their children away from illicit substances.

*The 10th anniversary will be celebrated in November with an event at House of Dun, near Montrose.